Academics

Dance courses offered include all levels of ballet, jazz and modern dance, five courses in choreography, three dance history courses, dance science and analysis, conditioning, pedagogy and production. An audition is required for acceptance into all dance major programs. Consult the University catalog for more information.

The Department of Dance at Western Michigan University offers four programs in dance:

The B.A. program offers an opportunity to explore the diversity of the dance profession within a strong liberal arts component. B.A. students individualize their program by choosing electives that support their dance career goals.

The Online Undergraduate Certificate in Dance Studio Management is designed to provide current and prospective dance studio owners with knowledge and skills related to dance studio ownership and management. Application and admission requirements for the Online Certificate in Dance Studio Management can be found at www.wmich.edu/apply/undergraduate/nondegree.

The dance minor is designed for students who wish to continue their dance studies as an avocation. Due to high demand, the dance minor is limited to 50 students and there is a waiting list to become a minor.

After WMU

Many of our majors have gone on to perform professionally with the well-known companies, some of which include:

Complexions Contemporary Ballet

Abraham.In.Motion

Keigwin+Company

Dayton Contemporary Dance Company

Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago

Garth Fagan Dance

Eisenhower Dance Ensemble

River North Chicago Dance Company

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance

Chicago Moving Company

Bebe Miller Company

Milwaukee Ballet

The Joel Hall Dancers

Others have danced at major theme parks, in touring productions of Broadway shows and on cruise ships. Graduates have been accepted into prestigious graduate dance programs. Others run successful dance studios or teach in community colleges and universities.